Can They Handle the Heat: Silicone vs. Glass Pipes

If we’re totally honest, most of us choose a pipe based on aesthetics, and there’s no shame in that. The world of pipes is more diverse and extensive than ever before, and there are countless ones available that are works of art as much as they are functional means for smoking our herb.

But, there are a number of factors that you should take into account prior to buying a pipe, because the reality is that the pipe you choose can have a lot to do with the quality of your smoking sessions.

Specifically, we’ll be comparing glass and silicone pipe abilities when it comes to handling heat. Obviously, you can’t smoke your herb without heat. So, which type of material is more equipped to handle that heat without breaking, shattering, burning you or simply delivering a disappointing smoke? Let’s find out. However, we also want to point out that both of these materials are extremely popular and are dominating today’s pipe market.

What are Glass Pipes?

Glass pipes have been around for longer than silicone pipes, and continue to be widely used to this day. Glass pipes are made from a uniquely thick and durable glass so that they are not as likely to shatter as one may think.

There are two types of glass pipes: standard pipes and water pipes. Water pipes use a water chamber that serves to cool the smoke, and creates a bubbling effect when air is drawn through the mouthpiece. Standard pipes consist of a bowl, a steam and a mouthpiece, and are extremely easy to use.

What are Silicone Pipes?

Silicone pipes are fairly recent compared to other pipe materials, and are quickly becoming enormously popular. Their main appeal is their durability, because even the toughest glass materials can break if dropped or knocked over in an unfortunate event. Silicone is almost unbreakable, being a synthetic polymer derived from quartz and sand.

Another appeal of silicone pipes are the way in which they don’t require as much cleaning. Over time, trace amounts of ash and resin build up in a pipe and must be cleaned. Glass pipes are more prone to getting “dirty” than silicone pipes, so those who have silicone pipes don’t need to spend as much time on maintenance.

Which One is More Heat-Resistant?

So, which type of pipe is more capable of handling the heat of your smoking sessions? Well, the answer is neither. Both glass and silicone pipes are constructed to perfectly handle the heat produced when you smoke. Smoke can only reach so high of a temperature, and both glass and silicone can withstand this particular temperature.

One thing that’s worth pointing out, however, is that water pipes are designed to cool down the smoke. Therefore, if you are particularly sensitive to heat, you may want to go with this type of pipe.

As you can see, both glass and silicone pipes are specially designed to handle the heat of a regular smoking session. Therefore, if heat resistance is your main priority, it doesn’t really matter which one you choose.